Hi folks,
I've been away from Brickboard for a while, but on returning, I'm getting a sense that there is a big negative feeling about the 960's for long term ownership. I don't want to start a big flap here, but would like to hear from knowledgeable owners what the likely trouble spots are turning out to be. The idea is to get a sense of what to watch for and/or take preventative steps for.

As a start, let me put in my experience. I have a '93 960 wagon with 123k, which I've owned for about 6 years and 80k (2nd owner with full history). To this point, I think it is by far the most comfortable, quickest, smoothest and best highway travel Volvo I have encountered. I particularly love the double overhead cam 201HP straight 6 (very like one of my BMW 6's), and the electronicly controlled transmission responsiveness (especially compared to the 740's in my stable) My wife drives a '98 XC, which is more responsive for steering responsiveness but more clumsy for overall handling. It's better in the snow at speed, but otherwise we take the 960 for out of town travel. As far as problems, the drivetrain has required a new intake gasket, replacement of a noisy sepentine belt pulley ( about $50), replacement of both of the shift interlock elements, a water temp sensor for the engine management controls, one radiator thermostat and a differential seal ( not substantial cost, but don't have a separate figure at hand). The Nivomats were replaced at 115k (DIY with Bodge Nivomats) for $380. The ACC has needed a new ambient temp sensor (about $25), one new hose and a new condenser (about $500). Battery replaced at 6 yrs as a preventive item, exhaust still all original, brakes about double life of the 1988 740 wagopn this replaced. No other maintenance other than full scheduled services (with Mobil 1 about every 4k). Cosmetics included only replacement of driver's seat bottom due to cracking of the leather surface dye ($40 for a perfect cover in salvage yard). Otherwise, paint as new, body sound, tight and rust free, interior excellent including rugs.

For most of its life, it has been the family hauler, with local kids stuff, 3 kids, dog and boat trailer on most summer weekends, winter ski trips, etc. all in New england climate so it hasn't been babied. At this point it is fully up to the best of my experiences with 740's run to 256k (1985), 208k (1988) and 130K (1991 and still here). It is way ahead of the two 1986 240 wagons we had, and by far the nicest everyday experience of any of them, even if I would like to make it a little more of a sports car.

Is this really exceptional, or is it just that the owners with problems are the ones we hear from and the rest are more like mine?

Thanks to everyone for your thoughts,

Mike Sullivan